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Vigilantes for Justice #1
Savannah Sleuth
Though born to heirloom pearls, designer dresses and lush garden parties, Savannah social icon Patricia Falcon and three of her closest friends spend their days in Savannah's dark side rescuing abused women. Patricia's darling mother, a prominent philanthropist, drops dead, and the police are baffled by her untimely death. Patricia recruits her three friends to help her investigate what she believes is murder. "Savannah Sleuth" is a page-turning journey from Savannah's Southern wealth and grace into the hidden corners of Savannah and across two continents in a deadly pursuit of justice.
217 pages, ebook
Published January 2, 2018
89 people are currently reading
1428 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 23, 2018
Why This Book
I belong to a cozy mystery reader group that offers ARCs of upcoming books through a giveaway contest. I won Alan Chaput's book, Savannah Sleuth, the first in his Vigilantes for Justice series from Falcon Press, published in early 2018.
Approach & Style
I read the paperback version of this 271-page novel in 4 hours over 3 days. It is told with a third-person point-of-view and via a perspective focused primarily on the main character, Patricia (Patsy); however, ~20% of the chapters focus on other characters so that readers know what's going on behind the scenes even though Patsy is unaware what has happened.
Plot, Characters & Setting
The novel takes place in Savannah, Georgia with a trip to Paris, France for a few chapters. It focuses on super-rich Patricia (Patsy) Falcon, her mother, her husband their daughter, friends and enemies. Patsy's mother dies under mysterious circumstances, prompting Patsy and her friends to search for the killer... but here's where this story takes a different arc. Her husband is part of a coalition to protect Savannah, so he's secretly investigating the death as well but she doesn't know it. As Patsy and her friends begin finding leads, more people keep dying or having accidents. Throw in some family issues with their daughter, side-stories involving the church, a homeless man who is searching for a parent, philanthropic efforts among the different friends in Patsy's group, affairs, and a very high-tech security detail... and you've got a lot of things to try and connect across the chapters.
Key Thoughts
Savannah as a backdrop is a wonderful setting. I've not been to the city but will be going later this year at the end of summer. I can't wait to see how well reality compares to the descriptions in this novel. It was highly engrossing, completely beautiful, and impressive in terms of how well integrated into the story. I felt like I was there while reading the book.
The vigilante concept is quite intriguing when you consider the vigilantes are the super-rich who run the city. Between the gun-toting society ladies, the friendly welcome and assistance of homeless, and openness about how they need to murder bad people in order to protect the town, I found myself constantly surprised at what people said and did.
A few parts made me turn my head and scratch the back of my scalp... only because it just didn't seem like a specific action could really happen the way it did, but it felt like maybe that was the point of the story. Once I just let my concerns go, falling into the complexity and depth of the story, I loved it. I felt the same way about the ending in terms of leaving too many things unsolved; however, it's clear those will be addressed in book two. Had some of these been a bit stronger or more fleshed out, I would have given this a cozy mystery a 5-star rating.
Chaput has a great platform and baseline to tell many stories in this series. The characters are rich with interesting personalities; I often couldn't tell who to trust and who to fear... it's a lot of grey and very little black and white. That was one of my favorite parts.
Summary
I'm very excited about this new mystery series. It's a solid 4+ star rating and may have been higher if a few loose threads were tied together before the end. It's a little darker than a typical cozy, but in a good way. I like how there's a lot going on in the stories, especially the side plots and secondary characters. I will definitely be reading the next one which is coming out very soon.
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I’m Jay, an author who lives in NYC. My debut novel, Watching Glass Shatter, can be purchased on Amazon. I write A LOT. I read A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll find the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge – words and humor. You can also find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
Follow my blog with Bloglovin.
I belong to a cozy mystery reader group that offers ARCs of upcoming books through a giveaway contest. I won Alan Chaput's book, Savannah Sleuth, the first in his Vigilantes for Justice series from Falcon Press, published in early 2018.
Approach & Style
I read the paperback version of this 271-page novel in 4 hours over 3 days. It is told with a third-person point-of-view and via a perspective focused primarily on the main character, Patricia (Patsy); however, ~20% of the chapters focus on other characters so that readers know what's going on behind the scenes even though Patsy is unaware what has happened.
Plot, Characters & Setting
The novel takes place in Savannah, Georgia with a trip to Paris, France for a few chapters. It focuses on super-rich Patricia (Patsy) Falcon, her mother, her husband their daughter, friends and enemies. Patsy's mother dies under mysterious circumstances, prompting Patsy and her friends to search for the killer... but here's where this story takes a different arc. Her husband is part of a coalition to protect Savannah, so he's secretly investigating the death as well but she doesn't know it. As Patsy and her friends begin finding leads, more people keep dying or having accidents. Throw in some family issues with their daughter, side-stories involving the church, a homeless man who is searching for a parent, philanthropic efforts among the different friends in Patsy's group, affairs, and a very high-tech security detail... and you've got a lot of things to try and connect across the chapters.
Key Thoughts
Savannah as a backdrop is a wonderful setting. I've not been to the city but will be going later this year at the end of summer. I can't wait to see how well reality compares to the descriptions in this novel. It was highly engrossing, completely beautiful, and impressive in terms of how well integrated into the story. I felt like I was there while reading the book.
The vigilante concept is quite intriguing when you consider the vigilantes are the super-rich who run the city. Between the gun-toting society ladies, the friendly welcome and assistance of homeless, and openness about how they need to murder bad people in order to protect the town, I found myself constantly surprised at what people said and did.
A few parts made me turn my head and scratch the back of my scalp... only because it just didn't seem like a specific action could really happen the way it did, but it felt like maybe that was the point of the story. Once I just let my concerns go, falling into the complexity and depth of the story, I loved it. I felt the same way about the ending in terms of leaving too many things unsolved; however, it's clear those will be addressed in book two. Had some of these been a bit stronger or more fleshed out, I would have given this a cozy mystery a 5-star rating.
Chaput has a great platform and baseline to tell many stories in this series. The characters are rich with interesting personalities; I often couldn't tell who to trust and who to fear... it's a lot of grey and very little black and white. That was one of my favorite parts.
Summary
I'm very excited about this new mystery series. It's a solid 4+ star rating and may have been higher if a few loose threads were tied together before the end. It's a little darker than a typical cozy, but in a good way. I like how there's a lot going on in the stories, especially the side plots and secondary characters. I will definitely be reading the next one which is coming out very soon.
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I’m Jay, an author who lives in NYC. My debut novel, Watching Glass Shatter, can be purchased on Amazon. I write A LOT. I read A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll find the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge – words and humor. You can also find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Thanks for stopping by. Note: All written content is my original creation and copyrighted to me, but the graphics and images were linked from other sites and belong to them. Many thanks to their original creators.
Follow my blog with Bloglovin.
April 19, 2018
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
Some upper class women in Savannah, Georgia who spend their days rescuing battered women try to solve the mystery of the death of the leader's mother.
Not bad, but despite every effort by the author, there really isn't a lot of tension generated.
Some upper class women in Savannah, Georgia who spend their days rescuing battered women try to solve the mystery of the death of the leader's mother.
Not bad, but despite every effort by the author, there really isn't a lot of tension generated.
April 16, 2018
Patricia is a wealthy woman living in Savannah, who, along with her friends, spends her days helping rescue abused women. Patricia's mother dies unexpectedly, so Patricia and her friends investigate.
The 1st book in the Vigilantes for Justice series. An entertaining new series. This story had the main mystery about Patricia's mother, but also included a secret society that helps protect the city, a homeless man looking for his father, and family drama. A lot going on in this fairly short book.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author.
The 1st book in the Vigilantes for Justice series. An entertaining new series. This story had the main mystery about Patricia's mother, but also included a secret society that helps protect the city, a homeless man looking for his father, and family drama. A lot going on in this fairly short book.
I received a digital copy of this book from the author.
March 1, 2018
This first in a series is off to a good start. When Patricia's mother a normally healthy woman, is found dead, odd things start coming up, which leads us to believe that she was murdered. Patricia is a strong woman with some self doubts which makes her real, her emotions were real and believable.
This book definitely kept me turning the pages because something was always cropping up, from dead bodies, Russia and the church, it keeps you guessing as to what is going to happen next. Vigilantes for Justice is an interesting idea with this secret society and I could actually believe that this happens. The characters for the most part are likable, and I enjoyed seeing the story through different eyes as we got to hear her husband's thoughts at times. The mystery was good and I didn't figure it out until right before the characters did. I will continue on with this series.
*I was lucky enough to have received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
This book definitely kept me turning the pages because something was always cropping up, from dead bodies, Russia and the church, it keeps you guessing as to what is going to happen next. Vigilantes for Justice is an interesting idea with this secret society and I could actually believe that this happens. The characters for the most part are likable, and I enjoyed seeing the story through different eyes as we got to hear her husband's thoughts at times. The mystery was good and I didn't figure it out until right before the characters did. I will continue on with this series.
*I was lucky enough to have received a copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.
February 28, 2018
What a great read! As the story developed, I turned the pages faster and faster! I enjoyed the twists and turns, never guessing that such a dark side of Savannah existed. It made the novel all the more fascinating. I really liked the characters (some more than others) and found myself rooting for Patricia, the main character. If you're looking for mystery and suspense in an unlikely setting, then this is the book for you!
I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily posted an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily posted an honest review.
January 15, 2018
"Savannah Sleuth" debuts Alan Chaput's fabulous gifts for both story-telling and writing. His characters come to life on the pages, pulling the reader deeper and deeper into their story. The more I got to know Patricia Falcon the more I wanted to know. After she and her vigilante friends decide to investigate Patricia's mother's death/murder, the evil in this world finds them, touches them, and worse. This book will take you to the edge and keep you there. This whodunit will have you looking over your shoulder as you read, the tension building page after page.
In parallel to a great mystery, "Savannah Sleuth" introduces 'the Cotton Coalition', a secret society that protects both the history and the future of Savannah. This is a very believable and brilliant concept.
I'd recommend this book to any reader who doesn't mind staying up all night, because I warn you, this book is difficult to put down.
I can't wait to read Alan Chaput's next book.
In parallel to a great mystery, "Savannah Sleuth" introduces 'the Cotton Coalition', a secret society that protects both the history and the future of Savannah. This is a very believable and brilliant concept.
I'd recommend this book to any reader who doesn't mind staying up all night, because I warn you, this book is difficult to put down.
I can't wait to read Alan Chaput's next book.
December 28, 2017
SAVANNAH SLEUTH is a fast-paced murder mystery entwined with multi-layered sub-plot vignettes, ( including a sultry scene or two), which envelops the reader like yellow jasmine on a wrought-iron garden gate.
As the reader accompanies Patricia,the antagonist,on her journey of discovery, Savannah references (Cotton Coalition/Chatham County Courthouse) help to awaken sensory awareness (butter-yellow daffodils/jasmine-scented breeze) and to experience real world southern charm (hummingbird cake/ Town & Country magazine).
One is pulled into a sense of resolution only to be shockingly enticed into the anticipation of SAVANNAH !
As the reader accompanies Patricia,the antagonist,on her journey of discovery, Savannah references (Cotton Coalition/Chatham County Courthouse) help to awaken sensory awareness (butter-yellow daffodils/jasmine-scented breeze) and to experience real world southern charm (hummingbird cake/ Town & Country magazine).
One is pulled into a sense of resolution only to be shockingly enticed into the anticipation of SAVANNAH !
December 27, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this clever novel with it's surprise ending. The author, Alan Chaput, has a well honed skill at grabbing you, the reader, and dropping you into the midst of the setting so that it is akin to really being there. I loved reading about Savannah, a place I have always wanted to visit. The backdrop for this story is charming and very real. It only adds to the tale and I was feeling as if I was there watching it all unfold. Alan has a real talent as a storyteller. His characters are diverse and its easy to believe they really exist.
This is a well written novel. No complaints at all from this reader. I will look for more stories about the Savannah Sleuth. She's a fun character and I would enjoy more adventures starring her and her friends, her patient husband and any new villain she encounters.
This is a well written novel. No complaints at all from this reader. I will look for more stories about the Savannah Sleuth. She's a fun character and I would enjoy more adventures starring her and her friends, her patient husband and any new villain she encounters.
March 2, 2018
This book is a quick and easy read. Once I started the book it was hard to put down. The author keeps your attention throughout the whole book with all the twists. I will definitely keep reading this series. In fact book two comes out next month so will have to go preorder it.
January 23, 2018
To say this in "Southern language",
"My, my, this mystery had me stomped," which considering that I figured out the killer in Marcoli's "Executive Privilege" was a surprise.
Alan Chaput's novel "Savannah Sleuth" is mystery that allows readers to peak into the lives of privileged Savannah residents. There are the four girlfriends Patricia, Judy, Meredith, and Alisa. Trying not to live the privileged life of rich ladies they help local women who are caught in bad marriages and suffering from battered wife syndrome to escape their marriages.
Then, Patricia's mother dies unexpectedly. Her doctor says Patricia's mom Henrietta was in perfect health, which is confirmed by Judy who played tennis with her on the morning before Henrietta dropped dead.
Patricia begins to worry that something isn't quite right which gets confirmed when best friend Meredith, a local bank executive, reveals that Henrietta's money is gone. All of it. And, Henrietta's clever accountant is missing. Patricia asks Meredith to "follow the money trail." Soon thereafter, Meredith is almost getting killed. However, she can't help the case because she lies in an induced coma at local hospital.
A black van, a priest who acts on behalf of the Vatican, and the Russian mob pop up. A Savannah port official dies. And, a noisy reporter who in the past wrote a scathing article about Henrietta starts asking unpleasant questions. Patricia who saw her mother only as a loving mother and generous philanthropist is dumbstruck.
All signs point to an enormous real estate deal the accountant wanted to facilitate having gone South. And, accountant Sonny Carothers is still missing but there is no body. Is Sonny dead, or still alive? Is he maybe even the killer?
Patricia's husband, Trey, is a member of the Cotton Coalition, a powerful organization of Savannah insiders who try to keep order in the city of Savannah if need be.
Trey orders personal protection for his wife, daughter and the girlfriends, and eventually evacuates them to Paris. But, this move does not stop the killer.
[Sorry, no spoilers.]
"Savannah Sleuth" is well-written mystery "with Southern charm." Author Al Chaput created a perfection mix of mystery novel and portrait of the city of Savannah (where I vacationed in 2002) and her residents. His characters come to live because he describes them so well, what they wear and how they talk.
"... in the past months she'd turned increasingly dark. He missed her sweetness and humor. Concerned, he met her gaze as he sat said, "Hey, What's up?"
"Not much besides the outside temperature, bro," she said softly..."
That's Southern humor. In the South it's always hot. And people always admire azaleas and honeysuckle, and drink ice tea.
This mystery novel is highly recommend to hobby sleuths and especially hobby sleuths who live in the South or love visiting the South. If you figure out the killer, please comment below this review, because i didn't.
I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book.
5 stars,
Gisela Hausmann, author & blogger
"My, my, this mystery had me stomped," which considering that I figured out the killer in Marcoli's "Executive Privilege" was a surprise.
Alan Chaput's novel "Savannah Sleuth" is mystery that allows readers to peak into the lives of privileged Savannah residents. There are the four girlfriends Patricia, Judy, Meredith, and Alisa. Trying not to live the privileged life of rich ladies they help local women who are caught in bad marriages and suffering from battered wife syndrome to escape their marriages.
Then, Patricia's mother dies unexpectedly. Her doctor says Patricia's mom Henrietta was in perfect health, which is confirmed by Judy who played tennis with her on the morning before Henrietta dropped dead.
Patricia begins to worry that something isn't quite right which gets confirmed when best friend Meredith, a local bank executive, reveals that Henrietta's money is gone. All of it. And, Henrietta's clever accountant is missing. Patricia asks Meredith to "follow the money trail." Soon thereafter, Meredith is almost getting killed. However, she can't help the case because she lies in an induced coma at local hospital.
A black van, a priest who acts on behalf of the Vatican, and the Russian mob pop up. A Savannah port official dies. And, a noisy reporter who in the past wrote a scathing article about Henrietta starts asking unpleasant questions. Patricia who saw her mother only as a loving mother and generous philanthropist is dumbstruck.
All signs point to an enormous real estate deal the accountant wanted to facilitate having gone South. And, accountant Sonny Carothers is still missing but there is no body. Is Sonny dead, or still alive? Is he maybe even the killer?
Patricia's husband, Trey, is a member of the Cotton Coalition, a powerful organization of Savannah insiders who try to keep order in the city of Savannah if need be.
Trey orders personal protection for his wife, daughter and the girlfriends, and eventually evacuates them to Paris. But, this move does not stop the killer.
[Sorry, no spoilers.]
"Savannah Sleuth" is well-written mystery "with Southern charm." Author Al Chaput created a perfection mix of mystery novel and portrait of the city of Savannah (where I vacationed in 2002) and her residents. His characters come to live because he describes them so well, what they wear and how they talk.
"... in the past months she'd turned increasingly dark. He missed her sweetness and humor. Concerned, he met her gaze as he sat said, "Hey, What's up?"
"Not much besides the outside temperature, bro," she said softly..."
That's Southern humor. In the South it's always hot. And people always admire azaleas and honeysuckle, and drink ice tea.
This mystery novel is highly recommend to hobby sleuths and especially hobby sleuths who live in the South or love visiting the South. If you figure out the killer, please comment below this review, because i didn't.
I was provided with an advanced reader copy of this book.
5 stars,
Gisela Hausmann, author & blogger
February 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this book! The characters in the book were very well developed. The main character Patricia is a strong female lead, who became very determined to find out what happened to her mother. She refused to give up until she found the answer.
I really enjoyed the strong alliance that the women in the book have. They are all willing to help on the case.
I liked the choice by the author to give the main characters the last name Falcon. To me, this shows that the characters will be strong, independent, and resilient.
I did get a sense that this book was different than other cozy mysteries I have read. There were some instances of cussing and a few intimate scenes. I didn’t feel that these instances took away from the book, however other cozy mystery readers should be aware they exist.
This book had me hooked from the first page and kept me reading all the way to the end. I am looking forward to the other books in this series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed the strong alliance that the women in the book have. They are all willing to help on the case.
I liked the choice by the author to give the main characters the last name Falcon. To me, this shows that the characters will be strong, independent, and resilient.
I did get a sense that this book was different than other cozy mysteries I have read. There were some instances of cussing and a few intimate scenes. I didn’t feel that these instances took away from the book, however other cozy mystery readers should be aware they exist.
This book had me hooked from the first page and kept me reading all the way to the end. I am looking forward to the other books in this series!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2018
Wowza!! The non-stop action grabs you from the start!!
I received a copy from the author to read and give a fair and honest review.
This book is very well written, with a plot that has numerous twists, that keep you trying to figure it out until the very end.
I instantly connected with the main characters, and was amazed how well the supporting characters meshed.
Old-money, historical Savannah is a wonderful setting, and it is described beautifully!
Vigilantes, police, Vatican investigators, even the Russian mob--this book has them all trying to figure out one murder, then two, and more attempts and near-misses.
I WILL be reading the next one!!
I received a copy from the author to read and give a fair and honest review.
This book is very well written, with a plot that has numerous twists, that keep you trying to figure it out until the very end.
I instantly connected with the main characters, and was amazed how well the supporting characters meshed.
Old-money, historical Savannah is a wonderful setting, and it is described beautifully!
Vigilantes, police, Vatican investigators, even the Russian mob--this book has them all trying to figure out one murder, then two, and more attempts and near-misses.
I WILL be reading the next one!!
January 27, 2018
Savannah Sleuth is a terrific beginning to what appears to be a new series that follows the activities of Patricia Falcon and her Kimber 45! While fictitious, including a certain "secret" society, it still has a strong and interesting sense of realism given the author's description of character actions, locales, and outcomes.
Especially impressive was the way in which the story comes together and how details are woven into the fabric of the novel. Also impressive is the detailed knowledge of how some events would actually develop such as the in hospital scenes.
Several interesting characters woven into the story although I wish there had been somewhat more of a physical description. That may be do to the way my mind works as I often "picture" how people "should look." Sometimes this backfires when a movie comes out. Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher? No way. Jim Caviezel from Person of Interest - Yes.
Clearly did not see the end coming; a mystery for sure. Pretty impressive writing for an emerging, new author of mysteries. Looking forward to Patricia's next adventure.
Especially impressive was the way in which the story comes together and how details are woven into the fabric of the novel. Also impressive is the detailed knowledge of how some events would actually develop such as the in hospital scenes.
Several interesting characters woven into the story although I wish there had been somewhat more of a physical description. That may be do to the way my mind works as I often "picture" how people "should look." Sometimes this backfires when a movie comes out. Tom Cruise as Jack Reacher? No way. Jim Caviezel from Person of Interest - Yes.
Clearly did not see the end coming; a mystery for sure. Pretty impressive writing for an emerging, new author of mysteries. Looking forward to Patricia's next adventure.
February 23, 2019
Very well thought out and captivating book. I received an advance copy for my honest review. With all the groups working towards the same end, it was just a matter of time till the mystery was solved. I'll be looking for book two of the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 28, 2019
Savannah is a Southern Belle in every meaning of the word, as are her three best friends. They go out to help abused women escape from the abusers--not exactly what you would expect a Southern Belle to do--Savannah's Mom is a BIG philanthropist--Mother and daughter are very close. When her mother drops dead after her tennis game and luncheom at the club-Savannah is devastated. Her Mom had been in perfect health and Savannah is bound and determined to get to the bottom of her death.
Twists and turns galore--and even the husbands (members of an elite group who keep trouble out of their town) get involved. It gets crazy!
You will never guess who the murderer is--and the ending will have you shivering and wondering if there will be another novel following this one which will continue the story.
I read a complimentary Copy of this book sent to me by the author & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
Twists and turns galore--and even the husbands (members of an elite group who keep trouble out of their town) get involved. It gets crazy!
You will never guess who the murderer is--and the ending will have you shivering and wondering if there will be another novel following this one which will continue the story.
I read a complimentary Copy of this book sent to me by the author & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
Read
January 29, 2018Book was good. Takes a while to get into the plot, but once you get there, you just keep reading, turning the pages faster, what's going to happen, who is the "bad guy", has a big surprise ending. Waiting for the next book!
February 22, 2018
I would have given this 3 1/2 stars if it was an option and debated on four. It was a fun book but there were parts that made me feel like I was missing something and the ending went too fast for me. All in all the book was fun to read and I wouldn't rule out reading the series.
February 12, 2019
This is an uncozy mystery, it has depth. While I am not acquainted with the elite life style in Savannah, I could relate to all the characters in the book. As exotic murders take place and a family fortune disappears, the police and private enforcers are at a loss to identify the murderer. The writing is clear with limited descriptive detail, and the action is realistic. I really couldn't identify with any of the characters, but they were all very realistic and understandable. The ending came as a bit of a shock and seemed a little contrived, but that's what made the book puzzling and engrossing.
January 10, 2018
Based on the cover, I expected this to be cozy chick-lit, with a spoiled southern Belle as a protagonist. I was very pleasantly surprised by the smart, tough, resilient Patricia Falcon and the complex plot that takes the action way beyond cozy. The author knows the south and authentically brings the setting to life for the reader. This book was very enjoyable from beginning to end and I eagerly anticipate the next in the series.
February 1, 2019
I liked the plot, well depicted characters, politics and relationships laid out for the reader and tight crafting of the action. The Southern Charm was over stated or maybe it’s roots in our culture were just under explained. Gave up sleep to read it in one sitting. All in all good read.
December 28, 2017
SUSPENSE UNTIL THE VERY END
The first of Alan Chaput’s new mystery series – The Vigelantes for Justice series – is going to catapult this award winning author into the top echelons of mystery and suspense literature, and will have readers hanging on to every word.
Patricia Falcon is a well-rounded main character, so vividly portrayed that I feel sure I have met her somewhere for real. Alan Chaput takes you into her life and makes you feel as if you were right here with her, feeling her fear, anticipating on tenterhooks her next move, and above all seeing her in every detail.
Full of twists and turns, never a dull moment when nothing is happening, I found I wanted to read as quickly as I could to find out what happens, and yet I didn’t want the novel to end. There is an amazing twist almost at the end that you couldn’t possibly guess would happen.
This is the first book by Alan Chaput that I have read, and I wondered how I had come to miss all his other books. I shall certainly read his back list now, and I look forward eagerly to his next book in the series – Savannah Secrets, out early next year.
The first of Alan Chaput’s new mystery series – The Vigelantes for Justice series – is going to catapult this award winning author into the top echelons of mystery and suspense literature, and will have readers hanging on to every word.
Patricia Falcon is a well-rounded main character, so vividly portrayed that I feel sure I have met her somewhere for real. Alan Chaput takes you into her life and makes you feel as if you were right here with her, feeling her fear, anticipating on tenterhooks her next move, and above all seeing her in every detail.
Full of twists and turns, never a dull moment when nothing is happening, I found I wanted to read as quickly as I could to find out what happens, and yet I didn’t want the novel to end. There is an amazing twist almost at the end that you couldn’t possibly guess would happen.
This is the first book by Alan Chaput that I have read, and I wondered how I had come to miss all his other books. I shall certainly read his back list now, and I look forward eagerly to his next book in the series – Savannah Secrets, out early next year.
January 3, 2018
A suspense stand out!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this trip to Savannah.
The sleuth’s story is no slouch, and I can not wait for a return visit. XOXO
The sleuth’s story is no slouch, and I can not wait for a return visit. XOXO
March 2, 2018
This is the first book in the new series Vigilantes for Alisa, and Judy picking up a battered wife to transport her to safety. It’s all a part of her job with the Cotton Coilition, a private organization that helps keep the city of Savannah safe offering services above and beyond what the typical authorities can. As the wife of the Coilition’s director, Patricia is proud do her part and is familiar with some of the dangers the dark side of Savannah can bring. When Patricia’s mother passes away unexpectedly and she is told that all of her mother’s money is missing,and so is her accountant, she begins to suspect foul play. Although her husband Trey assures her the Coilition will look into it, she can’t sit idly by without doing something so she and her three friends set out to find out what they can. When one of them is almost killed, they realize they may be involved in something deeper than they first supposed.
When you begin this story, it reads like a relatively straight forward mystery but then the author pulls you in, unraveling a story with more complexity and depth than you ever expected in a cozy mystery. His vivid descriptions have you feeling as if you’re watching it unfold right before your eyes and his character development is spot on. This a fast paced story, no lagging here, and it begins to read more like an international thriller than a cozy mystery. Twists and turns abound and the climax of the story doesn’t disappoint. If you enjoy a mystery that pulls you in and never lets go, then this is it. The end of the book gives you a sneak peek of the next one, Savannah Secrets, and it looks promising, so strap yourself in and hold on for what I hope to be a thrilling ride of a series from this talented author. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it.
When you begin this story, it reads like a relatively straight forward mystery but then the author pulls you in, unraveling a story with more complexity and depth than you ever expected in a cozy mystery. His vivid descriptions have you feeling as if you’re watching it unfold right before your eyes and his character development is spot on. This a fast paced story, no lagging here, and it begins to read more like an international thriller than a cozy mystery. Twists and turns abound and the climax of the story doesn’t disappoint. If you enjoy a mystery that pulls you in and never lets go, then this is it. The end of the book gives you a sneak peek of the next one, Savannah Secrets, and it looks promising, so strap yourself in and hold on for what I hope to be a thrilling ride of a series from this talented author. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it.
February 11, 2018
Savannah Sleuth is told from mostly the viewpoint of Patricia (Patsy to a few) Falcon. We are introduced to Patricia, and her three closest girlfriends Judy, Meredith and Alisa, as they are assisting a women who is caught in a bad marriage leave her home.
Just a few days later, Patricia’s mother Henrietta dies unexpectedly. Her doctor, who happens to be Judy’s husband, says that she was in perfect health. All is assumed natural until Isabel, her mother’s lawyer, determines that her mother died penniless and the money just recently disappeared. The plot grows thicker as Meredith, a local bank executive, finds the money went to Hong Kong and then disappeared in Hilton Head Island when it came back to the US. To top things off, Henrietta’s account has gone missing!
Patricia asks her husband Trey and the Cotton Coalition, a secret society keeping Savannah safe for generations, to look into what happened. She and her four girlfriends decide that they should also investigate. Top it off with a priest acting on behalf of the Vatican trying to determine what happened! Who did it? Was it the Russian mob who wanted some of Henrietta’s real estate? The accountant Sonny who is missing? The noisy newspaper reporter who popped back up?
People start getting shot, others dying. Trey orders in-home protection for Patricia and eventually moves them to Paris where…spoiler.
Savannah Sleuth is a well written cozy mystery. I enjoyed that they author brought to life some of the small details of Southern charm (cold pitchers of sweet ice team) as well as the smells; azaleas, honeysuckles and lavender to name just a few. Patricia was well rounded with her concerns being that of any daughter, wife and mother.
While the book was an easy read, finished it in about 5 hours, I was able to figure out “who done it” about a quarter of the way through and the majority of the “how it was done” three quarters of the way through. I do look forward to reading the next book in the series as there were a few items from building the characters that I’d like to see how that information is incorporated into the ongoing story.
Just a few days later, Patricia’s mother Henrietta dies unexpectedly. Her doctor, who happens to be Judy’s husband, says that she was in perfect health. All is assumed natural until Isabel, her mother’s lawyer, determines that her mother died penniless and the money just recently disappeared. The plot grows thicker as Meredith, a local bank executive, finds the money went to Hong Kong and then disappeared in Hilton Head Island when it came back to the US. To top things off, Henrietta’s account has gone missing!
Patricia asks her husband Trey and the Cotton Coalition, a secret society keeping Savannah safe for generations, to look into what happened. She and her four girlfriends decide that they should also investigate. Top it off with a priest acting on behalf of the Vatican trying to determine what happened! Who did it? Was it the Russian mob who wanted some of Henrietta’s real estate? The accountant Sonny who is missing? The noisy newspaper reporter who popped back up?
People start getting shot, others dying. Trey orders in-home protection for Patricia and eventually moves them to Paris where…spoiler.
Savannah Sleuth is a well written cozy mystery. I enjoyed that they author brought to life some of the small details of Southern charm (cold pitchers of sweet ice team) as well as the smells; azaleas, honeysuckles and lavender to name just a few. Patricia was well rounded with her concerns being that of any daughter, wife and mother.
While the book was an easy read, finished it in about 5 hours, I was able to figure out “who done it” about a quarter of the way through and the majority of the “how it was done” three quarters of the way through. I do look forward to reading the next book in the series as there were a few items from building the characters that I’d like to see how that information is incorporated into the ongoing story.
May 24, 2018
Justice calls…but will she answer?
Being a volunteer for a women’s abuse center, Patricia Falcon must be wary and vigilant, which is why she has to carry a gun. The thing is that she’s never really used it and tends to wonder if she ever will if the time comes.
Story had a steady, leisurely pace, which I’m sure is synonymous with the lifestyle of Savannah. And just like Savannah, it also had that murky, historical train of mystery in every corner. It would seem that the story had several unanswered questions. Who was that vagrant that’s been following Patricia and how does he know so much about her? What conspiracy lies behind Trey’s (Patricia’s husband) work at the Savannah Coalition? And, most importantly, who killed Patricia’s mother and why?
This was a pretty good book, but I kind of wished it would’ve had a faster pace. But the author definitely created a quaint, tight-knit story set against the comforting opulence of Savannah.
Will this Savannah sleuth figure it all out?
Being a volunteer for a women’s abuse center, Patricia Falcon must be wary and vigilant, which is why she has to carry a gun. The thing is that she’s never really used it and tends to wonder if she ever will if the time comes.
Story had a steady, leisurely pace, which I’m sure is synonymous with the lifestyle of Savannah. And just like Savannah, it also had that murky, historical train of mystery in every corner. It would seem that the story had several unanswered questions. Who was that vagrant that’s been following Patricia and how does he know so much about her? What conspiracy lies behind Trey’s (Patricia’s husband) work at the Savannah Coalition? And, most importantly, who killed Patricia’s mother and why?
This was a pretty good book, but I kind of wished it would’ve had a faster pace. But the author definitely created a quaint, tight-knit story set against the comforting opulence of Savannah.
Will this Savannah sleuth figure it all out?
February 27, 2018
.Welcome to Georgia, the setting in Alan Chaput’s newest novel. Meet Patricia Falcon and her director husband, Trevor. Also meet Patricia and her three friends who spend their time helping women in need. Women who need to escape the horrors of their lives. Danger waits. Money once again becomes the motive for murder.
The first victim is Patricia’s mother. Although, at first to be believed as a death of natural causes, a much more sinister diagnose arises. As her husband campaigns to allow women into a long standing secret group The Cotton Coalition, Patricia spends her time focusing on her mission in life.
Introduce murder. At first her mother passes from natural causes. Is it natural causes? No, a much more sinister reason lies behind it. A car explosion involving a friend, perhaps victim number two?
As we trail along body guards enter the picture as danger is ever present.
This is a very intense, face paced, hard to put down book. Set aside time to read it as you will not want to be interrupted. The book left me wanting for more. And more it will be as his new book in the series comes out in April 2018. I was so happy to read that. The fact that this will become a series and that the wait will not be long before I can dive back into reading about what the vigilantes for justice will be faced with next. This book is definitely a five star book.
The first victim is Patricia’s mother. Although, at first to be believed as a death of natural causes, a much more sinister diagnose arises. As her husband campaigns to allow women into a long standing secret group The Cotton Coalition, Patricia spends her time focusing on her mission in life.
Introduce murder. At first her mother passes from natural causes. Is it natural causes? No, a much more sinister reason lies behind it. A car explosion involving a friend, perhaps victim number two?
As we trail along body guards enter the picture as danger is ever present.
This is a very intense, face paced, hard to put down book. Set aside time to read it as you will not want to be interrupted. The book left me wanting for more. And more it will be as his new book in the series comes out in April 2018. I was so happy to read that. The fact that this will become a series and that the wait will not be long before I can dive back into reading about what the vigilantes for justice will be faced with next. This book is definitely a five star book.
November 16, 2018
The beginning alludes to four women helping abused women leave their situation. Important and life changing work that was never mentioned again. Suddenly the story was more about the money and infulence in Savannah, with murder thrown in, rather than any good deeds. The Coalition professes to be protectors of the city, but who chooses the evil doers to protect from? Some members, and their families, seem more invested in the power they wield, they brag about it to everyone, than trying to ensure safety to all.
It was funny that the amateurs found more information quicker than the experts and all their resources. Women are usually smarter than men, but these four housewives were super sleuths compared to the police, lawyers and ex-military that were working the case. Even with family lives on the line the power brokers couldn't let go of their control to protect them. No matter how much love was professed, actions speak louder than words.
All this really means for the book is that the characters are clearly defined and the storyline takes a deep look into their lives. The writing is well paced, making the reading pleasant and enjoyable. The cliffhanger is meant to entice you to the next book, but the narcissistic lifestyle being featured is not an interest of mine. Good luck with your series. I think you may have a hit on your hands.
It was funny that the amateurs found more information quicker than the experts and all their resources. Women are usually smarter than men, but these four housewives were super sleuths compared to the police, lawyers and ex-military that were working the case. Even with family lives on the line the power brokers couldn't let go of their control to protect them. No matter how much love was professed, actions speak louder than words.
All this really means for the book is that the characters are clearly defined and the storyline takes a deep look into their lives. The writing is well paced, making the reading pleasant and enjoyable. The cliffhanger is meant to entice you to the next book, but the narcissistic lifestyle being featured is not an interest of mine. Good luck with your series. I think you may have a hit on your hands.
March 2, 2018
A good debut for the Vigilantes for Justice series by new-to-me author Alan Chaput set in beautiful Savannah. I really liked the great characters, southern charm, twists and turns of this fast-paced mystery that kept me entertained and intrigued from the first page to the last. Fans of this genre should plan to read this can't-put-down book.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book and enjoyed it so much, I purchased a copy for my Kindle so I can read it again later.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book and enjoyed it so much, I purchased a copy for my Kindle so I can read it again later.
July 24, 2018
Savannah Sleuth by Alan Chaput
This story takes place in the south and they are VIGILANTES FOR JUSTICE. When a wealthy philanthropist is killed, the team will stop at nothing to find the perpetrator, even getting shot.
Going from Savannah’s wealthy side of town to the seedy part of time to rescue abused women is just part of their job. It’s hard but the need is real. It is a no nonsense job and the women are packing heat.
I did enjoy the storyline as it was different than I usually read.
This story takes place in the south and they are VIGILANTES FOR JUSTICE. When a wealthy philanthropist is killed, the team will stop at nothing to find the perpetrator, even getting shot.
Going from Savannah’s wealthy side of town to the seedy part of time to rescue abused women is just part of their job. It’s hard but the need is real. It is a no nonsense job and the women are packing heat.
I did enjoy the storyline as it was different than I usually read.
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